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Positive feedback between MAP kinase and Mos during Xenopus oocyte maturation
W T Matten1, T D Copeland, N G Ahn
1ABL-Basic Research Program, NCI-Frederick Cancer Research and Development Center, Frederick, Maryland 21702, USA.
Developmental Biology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
New protein synthesis, including Mos, is essential for Xenopus oocyte maturation. MAPK signaling appears to stimulate Mos synthesis, creating a positive feedback loop for meiotic progression.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Mos is a serine-threonine protein kinase regulating meiosis.
- Mos activates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) via MAPK kinase (MAPKK).
- Protein synthesis is necessary for efficient meiotic induction by this cascade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of de novo Mos synthesis in Xenopus oocyte maturation.
- To elucidate the relationship between MAPK and Mos during oocyte maturation.
Main Methods:
- Coinjection of active MAPKK or Mos-MAPK into Xenopus oocytes.
- In vitro phosphorylation assays of Mos by MAPK.
Main Results:
- De novo Mos synthesis is required for meiosis I induction by MAPKK or Mos-MAPK.
- MAPK phosphorylates Mos at Ser-3 in vitro, suggesting a positive feedback mechanism.
- MAPK may stimulate Mos synthesis for progression through meiosis.
Conclusions:
- A positive feedback loop between MAPK and Mos is crucial for oocyte maturation.
- MAPK-mediated stimulation of Mos synthesis is vital for completing meiosis I and arresting at meiosis II.